The Soft Reset
A soft reset of your device clears all active program memory and shuts down all active programs.

If your device is running slower than normal or if a program is not performing properly, this can sometimes help to fix the problem, very much like it does when you re-start your PC. Sometimes, a soft re-set is also required after installing a program.

Unsaved work is lost when a soft re-set is performed, so be sure to save your work, if you can. To avoid general data loss, it's wise to turn off your device before you perform the soft reset.

On the Sprint Mogul by HTC, you can do the soft re-set by using the stylus to press and hold the Reset button located on the bottom of the device. When the device has restarted, it will display the Today screen.

When to Hard Reset
A hard (or full) reset is a drastic measure. It wipes your device clean and restores it to its default settings.

It should only be performed as a troubleshooting measure if a normal reset doesn't solve a system problem and other attempts at correcting the issue have failed. Any programs you installed and data you entered will be deleted, along with your customized settings.

The hard reset is akin to reformatting your PC's hard drive; only the Windows Mobile software and other pre-installed programs will remain. If you are returning a device, donating it to a good cause, selling it, or otherwise passing it on, you should back up your data and then do a hard reset before you part with it.

How to do a Hard Reset
Performing a hard reset, as with a soft reset, varies from manufacturer to manufacturer and device to device. Check your users' manual for specific instructions about how to do this your device.

On the Sprint Mogul by HTC, for example, you can perform a hard reset by following these steps: